There’s Something About The Green Hand Bookstore

From one end to the other, Portland (Maine) is only wanting for bookstores in the sense that in a perfect world there would be a bookstore on every block. And the best part of Portland’s bookstore scene is the variety of used bookstores across the peninsula. If I had not already fallen so deeply in love with Carlson Turner Books and Bookbindery by the time I visited The Green Hand, the latter would certainly be my favorite. It does hold quite a close second place spot, however.

Upon entering The Green Hand for the first time, I did what I normally do in a new-to-me bookstore: avoided looking at section markers and instinctively chose a row of shelves. In this case, I found myself perusing theater plays and dramas, and giddily spotted a rare edition of Julius Caesar that matches an edition of Othello that I have. I left it on the shelf for the time being so I could wander the bookstore while touching and pulling books unimpeded by a book-filled hand (I did purchase it along with this edition of The Hound of the Baskervilles).

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The few aisles of tall bookshelves look like they go on forever, as if the building stretches beyond what its exterior depth indicates. Mystery, horror, and sci-fi options are quite plentiful, and the bookish and whimsical gift items on the counter are delightful. And don’t be put off by the sections with less overhead lighting – which is expected in a bookstore (or general store/business) in an old building – accent lighting is available for extra illumination [and coziness]. During my first visit, and the couple visits since then, I’ve always been greeted and chatted up by the owner – her obvious love for books and the shop complete the wonderful experience that is shopping at The Green Hand.

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The Green Hand
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661 Congress St.
Portland, Maine